Sometimes you may encounter such as situation that some media files cannot be played on your desktop due to codec type dependency. In order to reduce such an inconvenience and dependency on codec types, VideoLAN has been continuously improving its VLC media player as a free and open source multimedia framework and streaming solution for both office and home use. Just recently, VLC media player has reached a major milestone, version 1.0 with some improvements other than bug fixes.

VLC is an open source media player that is famous for its cross-platform compatibility. Without any dependency of system codecs, it is capable to play almost every type of video files seamlessly while allowing media streaming in your digital home. Some of the enhancements in the new release include new HD (High Definition) codecs support such as AES3, TrueHD, Real Video 3/4.0 and Blu-Ray Linear PCM as well as new formats such as Raw Dirac, M2TS and many more. Besides, it supports instant pausing and frame-by-frame support, live recording, finer speed controls, video scaling in full screen for much greater visual experience. Other than these, the new VLC version 1.0 is further enhanced with RTSP Trickplay support, zipped file playback, easier encoding GUI with customizable toolbars that make your media player unique from the rest.

If you have not tried VLC before, now is the time to download one here and experience it out yourself at no charge.

AOL has recently announced the availability of AIM 2.0.9.1 beta for Windows Mobile. The new version of AIM has been included a number of new features and changes for enhancing mobility experience. One of the notable feature is the Lifestream. The Lifestream allows users to keep tabs on what is happening with their contacts and the Lifestream tab has been added to the Buddy List for improving convenient.

The Lifestream comes with a series of features, including the ability to get AIM activities such as status updates or add Facebook and Twitter services. Moreover, the users also have the possibility to update their settings through syncing to their accounts via lifestream.aim.com.

Beside that, the users also can add YouTube or Delicious accounts, leave comments or read comments which made by their contacts. In addition, it also include Me tab feature for complement the Lifestream feature which enables users to see when their contacts leave comments or updates.
The latest version of AIM 2.0.9.1 beta for Windows Mobile is available for download. Both Windows Mobile 5 and Windows Mobile 6 operating systems are supported.

The Japanese consumer electronics giant, Sony has unveiled its new family of mini notebooks – Sony VAIO W Series, which features 10.1-inch (1366 x 768 HD resolution) ultra-wide, mercury-free LED backlit display, Intel Atom processor, 160GB HDD, integrated webcam and microphone, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n, dual USB ports and an isolated keyboard with springy, responsive keys aimed for comfortable and easy to use, based on Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition OS.

The Sony VAIO W Series that comes with VAIO Media plus Multimedia Streaming software
is ENERGY STAR 5.0 compliant and EPEAT Gold registered.

“The W Series lets you quickly look something up online whether searching for a recipe in the kitchen or relaxing on your recliner – there’s no need to trudge upstairs to your office,” said Mike Abary, senior vice president of the VAIO business group, Sony. “And it’s sturdy enough for the kids to use, making it perfect for every member of the family.”

The new ultra-portable Sony VAIO W Series netbook that comes in 3 vibrant colors including berry pink, sugar white and cocoa brown will be available for around $500.

One of the leading creators and publishers of games exclusively for iPhone and iPod Touch, ngmoco has launched a new game for Apple’s iPhone and iPod Touch – Rolando 2: Quest for the Golden Orchid. It’s a wild adventure game which crafted by Simon Oliver’s HandCircus microstudio, and utilizes accelerometer and innovative Multi-Touch user interface of hugely-popular iPhone and iPod Touch.

“ngmoco is excited about this amazing sequel to Rolando. It’s bigger, bolder and more beautiful than ever with huge additions to Rolando’s signature gameplay that fans and newcomers alike are going to love,” commented Neil Young, CEO & founder for ngmoco. “Developed exclusively for the iPhone and iPod touch, Rolando 2 is a classic example of just how deep, polished and meaningful pocket-sized games can be when they embrace the unique capabilities of these powerful devices.”

“We’ve pulled out all the stops for Rolando 2,” said Simon Oliver, Founder of HandCircus. “Since the release of Rolando, we have been hard at work developing all-new gameplay mechanics, a new 3-D graphics engine and much deeper story featuring all new Rolandos. The final experience will surprise and challenge iPhone and iPod touch gamers everywhere.”

Rolando 2: Quest for the Golden Orchid game that sports 46 levels and 6 unique chapters is now available on Apple App Store for around $10.

For some reasons, you might need chainsaws in your office, for instance, to prepare some artwork or models to while away your boredom. The commercially available chainsaws might not be so suitable for your purpose due to its large size and weight. If your work requires you to have one in your office, probably this compact USB-powered chainsaw, i.Saw, might be a good choice.

Measuring 15.2 x 5.8 x 5.1 inches (385 x 147 x 130mm) in dimension, the i.Saw is about a keyboard’s size and it weighs about 3.7kg. This mini chainsaw is powered by USB. Users just need to plug it to their computer or other USB-enabled devices to start using it. Even though it is small and light in size, i.Saw doesn’t compromise in terms of performance. The USB chain delivers fast cutting speed with good efficiency and it is tested on various types of woods and other materials. Let’s have a look at the video clip below on how the USB powered chainsaw works

Looking for an easy, convenient solution to transfer your precious memory into DVDs? Sony has concerned of your needs with the next-generation multi-function DVDirect DVD recorder, named as Sony DVDirect VRD-MC6, which able to transfer both SD and HD videos and digital photos to DVD discs without the need of a PC, featuring large 2.7-inch LCD screen for previewing video or up to 6 digital photos at a time.

In addition, Sony DVDirect VRD-MC6 can also transfer AVCHD quality videos to DVD while connected directly to Sony Handycam (hard drive or Memory Stick media-based), incorporating Digital Video (i.LINK/FireWire/IEEE-1394), Composite Video inputs, USB and built-in card reader that supports Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro, Memory Stick Duo, Memory Stick Pro Duo, SD/SDHC and xD-picture memory media.

“Many customers still have their old home movies on tapes and are looking for an easy solution to archive their personal digital imaging content on DVD discs,” said Shige Nakayama, manger of the DVDirect business, Sony. “With the larger built-in LCD color screen in a smaller body, the new DVDirect model makes it easier for customers to transfer the content to DVD discs for archiving, enjoying and sharing with family and friends.”

According to Sony, 4.7GB DVD+R/+RW disc can record up to 6 hours of SD video, up to 95 minutes of AVCHD video or up to 2,000 digital photos.

The new Sony DVDirect VRD-MC6 that maintains Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound, as well as 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios with compatible camcorders is expected to hit the market in coming September for about $230.